Scherer Legislation Promotes Work-Based Learning in Schools

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Working to improve job creation and economic opportunity, state Rep. Sue Scherer, D-Decatur, is advancing legislation to create a work-based learning database in Illinois schools.

“An important part of our education system is teaching students the skills they need to succeed later in life, and we also have to make sure that we’re giving students the resources they need to connect with employers so they can apply those skills in the workforce,” Scherer said. “Work-based learning programs in schools will help individuals looking to gain real work experience in order to prepare for their future careers.”

Scherer’s House Bill 2868 requires the Illinois State Board of Education to develop a work-based learning database to help facilitate relationships between school districts and businesses and expand work-based learning throughout the state. A work-based learning database is an educational strategy that provides students with real-life work experiences in which they can apply academic and technical skills and develop their employability.

“Creating good jobs continues to be a top priority for me because I care about putting more people to work,” Scherer said. “This legislation is one way to help improve the process for individuals looking for employment and promote work-based education in Illinois.”

Scherer passed House Bill 2868 passed out of the House Elementary & Secondary Education: School Curriculum & Policies Committee this week and the bill now awaits consideration by the full House.